Altis Gates Review: Well Blended

Altis Gates (not the Japanese car) is a new 2.5D MMORPG that's set in a world similar to that of a JRPG (Japanese RPG). Aside from the anime rendered PCs and NPCs, you'll notice that the monster references, as well as the background schemes resemble the modern "Tactics JRPGs" that we know and love. There are tons of familiar elements in this game, which makes it rather refreshing.

The story revolves around the land of Altis where Humans, Elves, and Borgs have learned to prosper after 300 years of war (my, that's a pretty long time). The best part about this game is that they actually managed to implement some storytelling. It's not the best on the market, but I do appreciate the effort. Anyway, Altis Gates has got some interesting features, so let's not waste time.

General

One thing that you should know about the game is that Altis Gates uses a turn-based system. It may be a very common feature in most RPGs, but it is a very rare feature for MMOs. The game runs on the typical isometric bird's eye view, which is the best way, in my opinion, to view and play MMOs. Combat is also presented in this format; so don't expect to see more of your character's angles any time soon. While some claim it to be a mixture of Myth War 2 and Godswar, I for one think that new games need the old games as a skeletal structure in order to evolve further. Might I say that they did blend these familiar elements surprisingly well, creating an awesome product that most MMO players can enjoy.

Turn-based combat in Altis Gates

Classes: Altis-volution!

Classes are one of the things that most players look for in an MMO. There's nothing better than having a whole array of characters to provide individuality among players, and what's good about this game is that it has a nice set of classes to keep you entertained. You'll start out with the game's two default archetypes: the warrior, and the mage. I don't really understand the difference between the two, but aside from abnormal statuses and bigger HP, there's nothing that separates their play styles whatsoever. It's still enjoyable though, so I guess that's okay. Class advancement is done through the job system that lets you pick a higher class or "sub-class" after reaching a certain level.

Example:

After reaching level 40, a Warrior can choose to become either a Gladiator or Combatant. More options wait as you advance, giving birth to more sub classes as you progress. The bad part would have to be the linearity of your progress since individual customization can still be an issue due since your second class only grants you 2 options to choose from; however, each class is quite unique and is still satisfying at some point. Classes (including default ones): Warrior, Magician, Combatant, Gladiator, Gunner, Mechanic, Swordsman, Berseker, Magician, Black Mage, White Mage, Shaman, Priest, Necromancer, Wizard.Fifteen Classes? That should be enough to keep you customizinguntil the end of daysright?

Part of the story-telling in the game

Gotta Catch Em' All

Pets are a default feature in this game, which adds up to the average set of classes. You'll be handed an egg upon starting the game, which will hatch after a while revealing your first pet. Combining your play style with your pet is a must, and can open new windows to evolve your combat style further. You're not limited to one pet and will continue to gain new pets as you progress throughout the game, so keep an eye out for them. Pets are also capable of leveling up and carry the ability to learn and use skills. It generally means that you will be controlling two characters throughout the entire game (with the second one being replaceable), which compensates for the linearity of turn-based combat.

Graphics and Interface

The game runs on a 2.5D system which technically means 3D elements stuck in a 2D perspective or platform. You could say that it technically means Granado Espada without the camera options and effects. The characters are well rendered and the armor sets look really nice. The background isn't so bad either, with crispy details that will keep you exploring until your character gets tired. Some of the monsters may look mighty familiar, like the beholder creature that obviously belongs to Dungeons and Dragons. I personally wouldn't count it as a con since it's given that most MMOs get their stuff from other titles, so let's just be glad the monsters look great. The interface is very user friendly and the HUD is very convenient for most players. The entire layout does seem generic to a point, but it helps a lot since it saves us the time of having to adjust to other bar locations.

Interesting graphic effect

The verdict

I would say that this game has a lot of things going for it. Given the proper population, you can party up and play turn-based games like you've never played before. Although the turn-based system may not be the most ideal system since most people prefer to move around instead of waiting for their turn. It's much different from playing single player turn based games as you are in charge of the entire squad throughout the fight. The graphics aren't that up to date but are still something to look at.

The background, themes, and elements are done extremely well, giving you a concrete visual of the Fantasy world of Altis. The Pet System is what caught my attention, since this is probably one of the most advanced pet systems I've ever seen. All in all, Altis Gates is a very good game, and can be enjoyed by almost any MMO player out there. It could use a bit of work, but it's definitely fine on its own.

The Good:- Intense combat- You don't see these games often- Pet System- User Friendly- Good array of classes.